A description of the general circulation in the North Atlantic ocean based on mass transport values derived from IGy (1957-1958) temperature and salinity data.
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Authors
Cummings, Walter James
Jung, Glenn H.
Subjects
General Circulation
Mass Transport
Ocean Currents
Geostrophic flow
Level of No Motion
Gulf Stream
Ocean Current Measurements
Heat Transport
Mass Transport
Ocean Currents
Geostrophic flow
Level of No Motion
Gulf Stream
Ocean Current Measurements
Heat Transport
Advisors
Jung, Glenn H.
Date of Issue
1977-03
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Using the results from geostrophic current calculations made along latitude sections sampled during the International Geophysical Year CIGY; 1957-58), the circulation above and below the level of no motion is evaluated quantitatively for the region between 8°N and 40°N in the Atlantic Ocean. The geostrophic current calculations have been based on a reference level of no motion established by a requirement of mass and salt flux continuity across each of the latitude sections (40°N, 36°N, 32°Nr 24°N, 16°N, and 8°N) . Current calculations extend to near bottom across each section. Comparisons are made with the actual current observations available for localized regions and with earlier calculations of this circulation. There is considerable evidence that a geostrophically calculated description of the North Atlantic general circulation, based on a level of no motion that lies near 1100m, compares favorably when compared to past transport estimates, past descriptions of the general circulation, and direct current measurements while having the singular advantage of maintaining the necessary continuity of total mass transport in the ocean.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Oceanography
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NPS Report Number
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Distribution Statement
Rights
This publication is a work of the U. S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.